Tulsi Gabbard is an American politician, military veteran, and former US Representative from Hawaii’s 2nd congressional district. She made history by becoming the first Hindu member of the US Congress and the first female combat veteran to run for president.
Early Life and Education
Tulsi Gabbard was born on April 12, 1981, in Leloaloa, American Samoa, to Carol and Mike Gabbard. Her father is of European-American descent, and her mother is of Samoan and European-American ancestry. Gabbard grew up in a multicultural and multireligious family, which influenced her spiritual and cultural beliefs.
Gabbard attended Hawaii Pacific University and later graduated from the Accelerated Officer Candidate School at the Alabama Military Academy. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in international business from Hawaii Pacific University.
Military Career
In 2003, Gabbard enlisted in the Hawaii Army National Guard and served two tours of duty in the Middle East. During her first deployment in 2004, she served in Iraq as a medical specialist. In 2008, she deployed to Kuwait as a military police officer.
Gabbard’s military experience has significantly shaped her political views, particularly on issues related to foreign policy, national security, and veterans’ affairs.
Political Career
Gabbard began her political career in 2002, serving in the Hawaii House of Representatives. She was the youngest woman to be elected to a state legislature at the time.
In 2012, Gabbard was elected to the US House of Representatives, representing Hawaii’s 2nd congressional district. She served four terms in Congress, focusing on issues related to veterans’ affairs, healthcare, education, and environmental protection.
2020 Presidential Campaign
On February 2, 2019, Gabbard announced her candidacy for the 2020 US presidential election. Her campaign focused on issues related to foreign policy, national security, and economic reform.
Gabbard’s campaign was marked by controversy, particularly surrounding her views on Syria and her meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in 2017. She also faced criticism for her past statements on LGBTQ+ issues and her association with anti-LGBTQ+ groups.
Despite these challenges, Gabbard’s campaign gained significant attention and support, particularly among voters who valued her unconventional approach to politics and her commitment to progressive policies.
Post-Presidential Campaign
After suspending her presidential campaign in March 2020, Gabbard continued to serve in the US House of Representatives. However, she announced in October 2020 that she would not seek re-election to Congress.
Gabbard has since remained active in politics, advocating for various causes, including veterans’ rights, environmental protection, and election reform.
Personal Life
Gabbard is married to Abraham Williams, a freelance cinematographer and editor. The couple married in 2015.
Gabbard is a practicing Hindu and has spoken publicly about the importance of her faith in her life and politics.
Conclusion
Tulsi Gabbard is a trailblazing politician, military veteran, and advocate for progressive policies. Her unconventional approach to politics and her commitment to issues related to foreign policy, national security, and economic reform have earned her a significant following and attention.
While her presidential campaign was marked by controversy, Gabbard remains a respected and influential figure in American politics. Her continued advocacy for various causes and her commitment to public service make her an important voice in the ongoing conversation about the future of American politics.